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RUGBY UNION: Performances remain key for Welsh

First published
in Sport
by Ed Mezzetti, Sports reporter specialising in Rugby, Cricket and Athletics. Call me on 01865 425456

LONDON Welsh head coach Lyn Jones says his side are still focusing on performances rather than results.

Jones has named an unchanged team for today’s Aviva Premiership clash with London Irish at Oxford’s Kassam Stadium (1) as they look to pull further clear of the relegation zone.

“Confidence is growing within the squad,” he said. “There is a really happy camp here at the moment.

“We are not looking at results, we are focusing on our performances.

“We are still trying to get those little one per cent improvements that can make all the difference.”

Jones admitted Welsh were frustrated not to have got more than a losing bonus point at Northampton last week after a strong display.

“After their performance last weekend we’re backing the same group of players to go out against London Irish and perform again,” said Jones Welsh tight-head prop Paulica Ion is on loan from Irish, but the links between the two go further.

Max Lahiff, who starts at prop for the visitors, and replacement Jack Moates both played for Welsh in last season’s Championship final.

Oxford University student Jamie Gibson drops to the Irish bench, while George Skivington returns at lock.

London Irish director of rugby Brian Smith, an Oxford Blue, said: “Lyn Jones has done a great job at London Welsh, they are a tough side to play and will be tough today.”